Learn more about features included with genuine Microsoft software, including the packaging, installation CD/DVD/USB, product
key labels and the Certificate of Authenticity (COA). When you buy software such as Windows, Office or Windows
Server on its own (not pre-installed on a PC), this is called packaged software. Typically, packaged software
can be bought from a retail store, an authorised reseller or an online reseller. Here are some quick things you
can look for when buying packaged software:

Retail Box COA

The Certificate of Authenticity (COA) label is used on the outside of the retail boxed software and explains what the product
is, its country of intended use and country of origin. The label has the following anti-counterfeit security
features:

Moiré image – Within the red area on the left hand side of the label is a feature to assist in proving
that the label is genuine. Hold the label horizontally at arm's length and at eye level. Look
straight at the label and then move to a very shallow viewing angle, for example by tilting the
label away from you. A series of zig zag lines and squares will become visible where there previously
appeared to be none.

Product key label

The product key label is a white or orange label that accompanies the installation CD/DVD/USB and Certificate of Authenticity
(COA) for a product and contains a 25 character product key. The product key label should not be purchased separately.

This product key label is a white label that accompanies the installation CD/DVD/USB and Certificate of Authenticity (COA)
for a product and contains a 25 character product key. In addition to the barcode and product key,
there is a small amount of print on the left edge and the top right-hand corner. On close inspection
(a magnifying glass may be required) the name “MICROSOFT” can be seen in blue on the left side, and
in green on the right side. The product key label should not be purchased separately.

Media

Many Microsoft products on CD, DVD and USB include holographic security features to help ensure that you receive authentic
products and to protect against counterfeiting.

Windows 10

Your Windows 10 Microsoft packaged software product is delivered with Windows on a USB device which includes vibrant colour
and 3D effects as the USB device is tilted. This hologram is embedded within the plastic moulded
component of the USB; it is not a label.

Office 2016

In limited countries and regions worldwide, you may receive your Office 2016 backup software on a USB device that includes
vibrant colour and 3D effects as the USB device is tilted. This hologram is embedded within the plastic
moulded component of the USB; it is not a label.

Earlier version of Windows

Microsoft packaged software products prior to Windows 10 such as Windows, Office and Windows Server are delivered on a CD or DVD,
which includes vibrant colour and 3D effects on the inner hub of the disc as the disc is tilted. This hologram is embedded within the disc;
it is not a label.

There is also an inner mirror band hologram located on the inner part of the back (data) side of the DVD. It changes colour as the disc is tilted.
Note: The copper holographic material is embedded within the DVD and is not a sticker. If the hologram peels away,
you may have received counterfeit software (
report counterfeit software to Microsoft).

Hologram Sticker

With the latest product releases on CD or DVD from Microsoft, additional optical security features can be seen from both
sides of the disc, near the inner hole of the disc and along the outer edge. The features are embedded within the
disc; they are not on a sticker. When the disc is flipped over, any text or
numbers will be seen as a mirror image of the reverse side.

On the thin Outer Mirror Band (OMB) ring, there is an area that shows “Microsoft” changing to the word “Genuine” as you slightly
tilt the disc from left to right.

In the Inner Mirror Band (IMB) area, there is an indicator arrow with a point towards the outer edge of the disc. There is
also a small corresponding indicator arrow on the thin OMB band, facing the much larger IMB version.
These two elements should be in direct alignment with each other.

Packaging

When viewing packaging, simple things such as spelling errors, blurry text and images, or poor print quality can help you
identify counterfeit software. Incorrect logos and photos that don’t quite correspond to the product you’re purchasing
can also provide clues that something isn’t quite right.

Considering downloading software? Here’s how to better protect yourself to make sure you get what you expect.

When buying Microsoft software as a digital download, we recommend that you avoid auction sites and peer-to-peer (P2P) file
sharing sites. At the moment there are a limited number of sites where you can legally purchase digital downloads
of Microsoft software. One example is the online
Microsoft Store, where you can buy a wide variety of genuine software and hardware directly from Microsoft (in
select markets). Additionally, you can purchase a digital download of Windows at
www.windows.com/shop.

With the exception of Product Key Cards distributed with Certificates of Authenticity (COA’s), Microsoft does not distribute
products keys as standalone products. If you see a listing on an auction site, online classified ad, or other
online page advertising product keys, it’s a good indication that these keys are likely stolen or counterfeit.
Learn more.